The interim government of Bangladesh, led by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, has issued a strong condemnation following the alleged lynching of a Hindu man in Mymensingh. The incident occurred amidst a fresh wave of violence triggered by the death of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi, who succumbed to injuries sustained during the July uprising.
“No Place for Violence”
In a statement released via Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam, the administration made its stance clear:
- Commitment to Justice: The government stated that there is “no place for such violence in the new Bangladesh” and vowed that those involved in the “brutal crime” in Mymensingh would not be spared.
- Call for Restraint: Chief Adviser Yunus, in a televised address on Thursday night, urged citizens to remain patient and allow law enforcement agencies to investigate the death of Hadi and subsequent incidents with professionalism.
Solidarity with the Media
The unrest has seen targeted attacks on prominent media houses, including the offices of The Daily Star, Prothom Alo, and New Age.
- Attack on Truth: The administration expressed deep regret over the “terror and violence” journalists faced, stating that an attack on the press is an “attack on the truth.”
- Damage Control: Protesters had reportedly torched and vandalized these offices, leading to a narrow escape for several staff members. The government has promised full justice for these attacks.
The Catalyst: Death of Sharif Osman Hadi
The recent tension was ignited by the passing of Sharif Osman Hadi, a spokesperson for the Inqilab Mancha and a prominent figure in the July protests. Hadi had been receiving treatment in Singapore after being shot in the head but was declared a “martyr” by the government upon his passing.
While the nation mourns Hadi, the interim administration is struggling to contain retaliatory violence, arson, and intimidation that have gripped several cities.